Heart health an important concern for women

The human heart beats continuously, dozens of times every single minute. The heart pumps blood through 100,000 miles of blood vessels. It is an incredible mechanism.

Yet the heart can develop problems. Almost 40 percent of women, as well as men, in the United States are at moderate risk for heart attack, stroke or other coronary “event” that could turn deadly.

Signs and symptoms of a heart attack are often subtle in women. Women may feel shortness of breath or fatigue when engaging in activities that used to be easy, or may have a feeling of mild indigestion. Women may not experience any chest discomfort during a heart attack.

Though heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, many don’t know they are at risk. Risk factors especially applicable to women are cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, family history of premature heart disease (under age 65 in a female first-degree relative or under age 55 in a male first-degree relative) and age. Physical inactivity is an important risk factor as well.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. To combat this health issue, UAF Cooperative Extension Service will be offering the Healthy Hearts for Strong Women program, starting in February. Healthy Hearts is a research-based exercise and nutrition program to help women improve their heart health. The Healthy Hearts program is a fun way to make positive changes to help you eat better, move more and improve your general health and wellbeing.

During these hour-long classes over 12 weeks you will learn about heart healthy eating patterns and weight control techniques. Each class will also include heart-healthy exercise. This nutrition and exercise program for midlife women will meet Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Come find out more at the informational meeting at 9:30 a.m., Feb. 4 at 809 S. Chugach St. Suite 2, Palmer.

If you or someone you know would benefit from this program, contact us today! For more information, call 745-3677.

Julie Cascio is a home economist for the Mat-Su District Extension.